Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has identified Hezbollah as the primary barrier to achieving peace between Israel and Lebanon, expressing readiness to resume direct negotiations in Washington after a four-decade hiatus.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports that the minister made these remarks during a diplomatic reception at the Presidential Palace held in honor of Israel's Independence Day.
Saar noted that although Israel has not maintained direct diplomatic contact with Lebanon for more than 40 years, the country is now prepared to take a historic step toward the restoration of direct talks. He highlighted that Lebanon is currently experiencing a severe state crisis, with Hezbollah serving as the dominant force within the country. "Lebanon is a failed state and is effectively under Iranian influence through Hezbollah," Saar stated.
The minister further emphasized that fundamental border disputes between Israel and Lebanon are not extensive and can be resolved through diplomatic channels. He reiterated that the main obstacle to the peace and normalization process remains the presence and activities of Hezbollah. The proposed direct negotiations between the two nations are expected to be hosted in Washington.
Relations between Israel and Lebanon have been characterized by decades of conflict and the absence of formal diplomatic ties. Historically, the United States has played a central role as a mediator in regional disputes, including the 2022 maritime border agreement which allowed both nations to pursue offshore energy resources. The potential for direct political dialogue marks a significant shift in the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, particularly amid ongoing regional tensions and the influence of external actors in Lebanese domestic affairs.
